A vs Fnet Graph: Acceleration or Force?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the proper placement of variables on a graph comparing acceleration (a) and net force (Fnet). When measuring how acceleration changes with varying net force, Fnet should be plotted on the y-axis as the dependent variable, while acceleration is plotted on the x-axis as the independent variable. This is particularly relevant in lab scenarios where the net force is manipulated by changing weights applied to a cart, affecting its acceleration.

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[SOLVED] a vs Fnet graph

Which unit goes on the y axis? acceleration or Fnet?
 
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It depends which one your plotting on the y-axis :-p (sorry couldn't resist). Generally, your independent variable [the one you are measuring] would go on the y-axis and your dependent variable [the one you are controlling] would go on the x-axis.
 
Hootenanny said:
It depends which one your plotting on the y-axis :-p (sorry couldn't resist). Generally, your independent variable [the one you are measuring] would go on the y-axis and your dependent variable [the one you are controlling] would go on the x-axis.
lol So Fnet goes on the y-axis because I'm measuring the Newtons, right?
 
xCanx said:
lol So Fnet goes on the y-axis because I'm measuring the Newtons, right?
Yes, if you are chaging the acceleration and measuring how this affects the force then F goes on the y-axis.
 
See, I'm doing a lab and it asks me to graph a vs Fnet. The lab was measuring how fast a cart is pulled by different weights. And so Fnet was already given (one part of the lab, Fnet was constant, and the other part was not). I'm actually changing the weights that are pulling the cart (Fnet). Thanks for your help :)
 
xCanx said:
See, I'm doing a lab and it asks me to graph a vs Fnet. The lab was measuring how fast a cart is pulled by different weights. And so Fnet was already given (one part of the lab, Fnet was constant, and the other part was not). I'm actually changing the weights that are pulling the cart (Fnet). Thanks for your help :)
So in your case your controlling the force and measuring the acceleration; so a goes on the y-axis and F on the x-axis
 

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